5 secrets to getting small business admin tasks DONE

by Startacus Admin

Managing your admin when starting a business, is not just a necessity - it needs to be done right! Over to the good folk at Sage UK with 5 tips for getting small business admin tasks done...

For the passionate, dream-chasing entrepreneur, starting a business is almost always harder than it sounds. Admittedly, administration tasks may not sound like the fun life you signed up for as your own boss… but striving to keep on top of these duties will mean you have more time and brainpower to do what you do best. Whether you’re applying for grants, filing certificates or keeping track of your business expenses, these top tips should help you get it DONE.

1: USE TIME BLOCKS. Self-discipline is the key to getting admin tasks done and dusted. Spend the first hour of your day answering emails, making calls, sending invoices and updating your accounts. Once you get into the swing of it you’ll love the feeling of freedom throughout the rest of your day.

2: LOOK AT YOUR CALENDAR. During one of your admin time blocks (see, they’re coming in handy already), fill in a calendar with all your unmissable key dates. These milestones might include networking events, PR opportunities and of course inevitable admin deadlines. Knowing what’s coming up means you can anticipate and avoid last minute stress. 

3: WORK MOBILE. As an ambitious entrepreneur you probably have the lifestyle of a jet-setter – or at least aim to. However being a one-man band means wherever you go, your business goes with you. And that means responsibilities get packed in your suitcase too. Give yourself a helping hand by making sure you can do your work from wherever you are. These days it’s all about cloud software meaning you can connect to your to-do lists or online accounts daily. Don’t let the minor chores build up!

4: FOCUS. According to recent research, single-tasking is the way to go. No-one (not even your mum) can genuinely multitask. Without getting stressed that is. And stress leads to mistakes which at the end of the day can lead to more work. Dedicate full attention to these duties and you’ll be surprised how little time they actually take.

5: LET OTHERS DO THE WORK FOR YOU. Don’t spend your precious time delving into the depths of legal jargon. Instead, use automated solutions like invoice templates or ready-made payroll programs. Roof Shingles founder Annwen Harris claims “what I like best about Sage One software is it’s always up to date with the latest legislation”. Know when to rely on professional help.

Finally, don’t forget to use your thickest marker pen to strike through those tasks when you complete your list for the week. Remembering how good it feels to be in control will only encourage you to stay on top in future. And the virtuous circle of accomplished entrepreneurship goes on… 

If you like this admin inspired post, you might also want to take a look at:

• How to start a part-time business - Week 2 - Approaching the launch
• Top tips for managing your To-Do list!

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Published on: 13th May 2014